Morocco midfielder Nael El Aynaoui would consider a move to FC Barcelona the fulfilment of a lifelong dream, according to his father, former tennis star Younes El Aynaoui.
The revelation comes as the 24-year-old continues to attract attention during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he has established himself as one of Morocco’s standout performers and helped the Atlas Lions move closer to qualification for the knockout stages.
Speaking to the Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Younes El Aynaoui explained that his son has maintained a deep connection with Barcelona since childhood and would welcome any opportunity to represent the Catalan club in the future.
According to the former tennis player, a move to Camp Nou would hold special significance because of the family’s long association with the city.
Childhood Years in Barcelona Shaped Dream
Younes El Aynaoui, who reached a career-high ranking of world No. 13 on the ATP Tour in 2003, revealed that his son spent much of his early life in Barcelona.
The midfielder lived in the city from birth until the age of 11, a period that helped create a strong attachment to both Barcelona and the football culture surrounding the club.
That connection has endured throughout his career.
Discussing the possibility of his son one day playing for the Spanish giants, Younes said Nael would be “the happiest man in the world” if such an opportunity ever arose.
The comments provide insight into the personal motivations of a player whose reputation has grown significantly in recent years, particularly through his performances at club and international level.
World Cup Displays Raise Profile
El Aynaoui has been among Morocco’s most influential players during the current World Cup campaign.
He started in the Atlas Lions’ matches against Brazil and Scotland, contributing to performances that have left Morocco in a strong position to advance to the round of 32.
His displays in midfield have attracted attention as Morocco continue their pursuit of another successful tournament run.
The midfielder’s ability to influence matches both defensively and offensively has made him an important figure within the national team setup.
With qualification still to be secured, Morocco will now look to build on those performances in their final group-stage fixture.
Inspired by Barcelona Legend
El Aynaoui has previously spoken openly about the players who influenced his development.
Among them, former Barcelona and Spain midfielder Andrés Iniesta occupies a special place.
The Moroccan international has identified Iniesta as his childhood idol and a player whose style he admired while growing up.
He has also described himself as a modern midfielder capable of operating in multiple roles across the centre of the pitch, a versatility that has become increasingly valuable in contemporary football.
That adaptability has helped him establish himself at both club and international level.
Roma Contract Makes Move Difficult
Although the dream of representing Barcelona remains alive, any potential transfer appears complicated at present.
El Aynaoui is currently under a long-term contract with AS Roma until 2030 after joining the Italian side from RC Lens.
His commitment to Roma provides stability and reflects the confidence the club has placed in his abilities following his impressive performances in France.
In addition, competition for places at Barcelona remains intense.
The Spanish club already possesses a number of high-profile midfield options, including Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Gavi and Marc Bernal.
Their presence means any future move would require significant developments before becoming a realistic possibility.
Focus Remains on Morocco’s World Cup Mission
For now, El Aynaoui’s immediate priority remains the World Cup.
Morocco are preparing for their final group-stage match against Haiti, a fixture that could determine whether the Atlas Lions secure a place in the knockout rounds.
As speculation about his future continues, El Aynaoui will be hoping to maintain the form that has made him one of Morocco’s key performers in the tournament.
Whether or not a move to Barcelona materialises in the years ahead, the midfielder’s performances on football’s biggest stage are already helping to enhance his reputation and bringing renewed attention to one of Morocco’s brightest talents.
